Hotel Chicago construction site work in progress

On Rotterdam's dynamic Wilhelmina Pier, a location synonymous with modern architecture and metropolitan allure, a new player in the hospitality world is currently under construction: Hotel Chicago. The official name, "Hotel Chicago Construction Site Work in Progress," leaves little to the imagination. This isn't a readily available accommodation , but an ambitious project that will significantly enhance the city's skyline and tourist offerings. Construction, which officially began in late 2024, promises to become a destination that will appeal to both locals and international visitors. Completion is expected in the first half of 2028.

A New Chapter for WestCord Hotels

Behind this project is WestCord Hotels, a renowned Dutch family business that already has a strong presence in Rotterdam with the iconic Hotel New York and the SS Rotterdam. Hotel Chicago will be their third hotel in the city and is strategically positioned next to its famous neighbor, Hotel New York. The name "Chicago" is no coincidence; it refers to the name of the lot, as established decades ago by urban planner Riek Bakker during the pier's redevelopment. This project marks a new phase for the pier, on a historically charged site where the "Emigrants' Hotel" once stood, a final stop for many on their way to a new life in America.

Architecture and Design: From Floating Pool to Green Atrium

The design, by Team V Architectuur, has undergone a transformation. A previous, spectacular plan with two buildings connected by a floating glass-bottomed swimming pool was scrapped due to high costs and the impact of the coronavirus crisis. The current design is no less impressive and focuses on a single large volume of almost 24,000 m² gross floor area. The building will consist of five floors for the hotel , with an additional volume above for luxury penthouses. A central element of the new design is a large, green atrium that will not only serve as the main entrance but will also be publicly accessible. This creates an open and inviting atmosphere. The swimming pool has been moved to the ground floor, where it will be visible from the street thanks to a glass facade, contributing to the vibrancy of the area.

What Hotel Chicago Has to Offer: A Multifunctional Destination

Hotel Chicago is designed as more than just a place to stay; it will be a multifunctional resort in the heart of the city. The program is diverse and caters to different target groups.

• Rooms and Apartments: The hotel will have approximately 200 rooms . In addition, there will be seven luxury penthouses, and previous plans included 18 long-stay vacation apartments , ideal for guests planning a longer stay. This diverse range of accommodations makes it attractive to both tourists and business travelers.
• Leisure and Business Facilities: Guests and local residents will soon have access to a comprehensive wellness center with a swimming pool and sauna, a fitness room, and various meeting rooms. This makes it a fully-fledged destination for both leisure and professional meetings.
• Culinary and Commercial Spaces: The ground floor, the building's "basement," will become a vibrant space with a restaurant, café, terrace, and even a bakery and bicycle repair shop. This open design invites the neighborhood in and reinforces the hotel's role as a social hub.
• Parking: There will be a two-level underground parking garage beneath the building with space for approximately 190 to 200 vehicles, a significant number of which will be equipped with electric charging points.

The Potential Plus Points

When Hotel Chicago opens its doors, it will have several strong assets. Its prime location on the Wilhelmina Pier, nestled between iconic hotels like Hotel New York and Las Palmas, is unparalleled. Visitors will enjoy spectacular views of the Maas River and the Rotterdam skyline. Its proximity to cultural institutions like the Luxor Theatre and the Netherlands Photo Museum, as well as a wide range of restaurants and bars, makes it an ideal base. The ambition to create an open and accessible building with a green atrium and public functions could make the hotel a popular meeting place, similar to the role played by other hotels and hostels in the city. The diverse offerings, from standard rooms to luxury penthouses and perhaps even a longer-stay apartment , appeal to a broad market.

The Reality and Possible Disadvantages

The most obvious "disadvantage" at the moment is the project's status. It's a construction site, so there's no functional alojamiento yet. Interested clients will have to wait until the planned opening in 2028. As with any major construction project, there's always a risk of delays. The original start date was already planned for 2019, which demonstrates how external factors can influence the schedule. The location, while fantastic, also presents a challenge. Building on a "postage stamp" in a densely populated and logistically complex area, where cruise ships also dock 100 days a year, entails considerable complexity. Once opened, competition will be fierce, with established names in the immediate vicinity. Success will depend on distinguishing itself in service and atmosphere, and not relying solely on location and facilities. It's not an accessible albergue or a simple hostería ; The high-end positioning means it will have to live up to the high expectations associated with the location and name.

A Promise for the Future

Although Otto Reuchlinweg 1150 is currently a construction site, the promise of Hotel Chicago is undeniable. Designed by Team V Architectuur, this WestCord Hotels project is destined to become a significant addition to Rotterdam's hospedaje offerings. With a well-thought-out mix of hotel rooms, luxury apartments, wellness facilities, restaurants, and public spaces, it has all the ingredients for success. For travelers seeking a unique type of accommodation , it's a project worth keeping a close eye on. It's an investment in the future of the Wilhelmina Pier and a confirmation of Rotterdam's status as a city constantly evolving.